Classification of Diets.
The purpose is not to give below such receipts as are found in ordinary cook books, but simply to suggest foods useful for invalids, for semi-invalids, or for chronic, abnormal conditions of digestive organs.
BEVERAGES.
Beverages are primarily to relieve thirst; they may also contain food elements; they may be used for their effect in heat and cold; for their flavor which helps to increase the appetite; or for their stimulating properties.
WATER. Pure and carbonated; mineral waters contain iron, sulphur, lithium, etc.
Hot drinks should be served at a temperature of from 122 to 140 degrees F. When water is used as a hot drink it should be freshly drawn, brought to a boil and used at once. This sterilizes and develops a better flavor.
Cold water should be thoroughly cooled, but not iced, unless ice water is sipped very slowly and held in the mouth until the chill is off. Water is best cooled by placing the receptacle on ice rather than by putting ice in the water.
FRUIT JUICES. Under fruit juices are
Grape juice, apple juice,